Twenty years ago, I began working with filmmaker, James Kleinert. All of his films are efforts to draw attention to the plight of Native Americans and the American wild horse. During that time, James has produced over a dozen films containing unique one-of-a-kind shots of wild horses filmed in the mountains of Colorado, Wyoming, and the Dakotas.
His latest film, “Native Horse,” can now be streamed on PBS. “Native Horse” looks at the evolution of horses in North America. New discoveries in Western science have come together with Lakota scientists to create a more complete understanding of the horse, its evolution, and its bond with humans.
This film is an expansive and intimate exploration of our interconnectedness with the horse, each other, and our environment. In soul-felt interviews, Native American Elders, Horsemen, and Horsewomen explain their ancient relationship with Horse Nation. Dr. N. Scott Momaday (Kiowa Pulitzer Prize winning author) references the age-old mythical story of The Centaur, asking the question of Horse and Man evolving together and being one.
James’ film “Mustangs and Renegades” is the prequel to “Native Horse” and can be viewed for free by following the link.
Despite challenges, James continues to shed light on the plight of wild horses, public lands, and corporate-government collusion in the American West.